Couples Counselling in Lytchett Minster

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Photo of Darline Joseph Marianathan, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Darline Joseph Marianathan
Psychotherapist, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Wimborne BH21
I have been in parental role early on in life and have gone through various relationship dynamics in both individualist as well as collectivist cultures.
Life can be a rough ride. Keeping the balance and moving forward can be a challenge. It can involve stress, anxiety, depression and much more. But I believe through psychological therapies we can learn and, in some cases even master, the art of managing life successfully. To achieve this, I practise an integrative approach that draws strength from various therapies in the field. I am a qualified Psychotherapist at a Doctoral level and I feel confident to deal with complexity . My natural inclination is to help people in need. My recent training and qualifications do enhance my inclination especially to those psychologically unwell.
I have been in parental role early on in life and have gone through various relationship dynamics in both individualist as well as collectivist cultures.
Life can be a rough ride. Keeping the balance and moving forward can be a challenge. It can involve stress, anxiety, depression and much more. But I believe through psychological therapies we can learn and, in some cases even master, the art of managing life successfully. To achieve this, I practise an integrative approach that draws strength from various therapies in the field. I am a qualified Psychotherapist at a Doctoral level and I feel confident to deal with complexity . My natural inclination is to help people in need. My recent training and qualifications do enhance my inclination especially to those psychologically unwell.
01837 512340 View 01837 512340
Photo of Elena Peters, Psychologist in Lytchett Minster, England
Elena Peters
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Broadstone BH18
Starting therapy is a significant and sometimes challenging step for many individuals and couples.
I am Dr Elena Peters Chtereva, a Chartered Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Division of Counselling Psychology of the British Psychological Society. My work is informed by evidence-based practice and research, and I participate in regular supervision to keep up to date with new developments. I adopt an integrative and flexible approach in my clinical practice, considering clients’ specific needs and therapy goals. During my training and post-qualifying, I received extensive training in applying Psychodynamic Therapy, Relational Approach, CBT, CFT, EFT, and EMDR more recently.
Starting therapy is a significant and sometimes challenging step for many individuals and couples.
I am Dr Elena Peters Chtereva, a Chartered Psychologist registered with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC) and the Division of Counselling Psychology of the British Psychological Society. My work is informed by evidence-based practice and research, and I participate in regular supervision to keep up to date with new developments. I adopt an integrative and flexible approach in my clinical practice, considering clients’ specific needs and therapy goals. During my training and post-qualifying, I received extensive training in applying Psychodynamic Therapy, Relational Approach, CBT, CFT, EFT, and EMDR more recently.
01202 149271 View 01202 149271
Photo of Neuropsychology Dorset, Psychologist in Lytchett Minster, England
Neuropsychology Dorset
Psychologist, PsychD, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Poole BH12
We are trained to deliver evidence-based psychological therapy for conditions such as anxiety, depression, phobia, trauma, loss, relational issues, identity, self-esteem, and couples work.
Neuropsychology Dorset consists of HCPC registered Clinical Psychologists that specialise in the assessment, diagnosis, and intervention of adults with neurodiversity such as autism, ADHD, and neurological conditions. We can also provide psychological therapy for a range of conditions - to find out more, please visit our website at www.neuropsychologydorset.co.uk
We are trained to deliver evidence-based psychological therapy for conditions such as anxiety, depression, phobia, trauma, loss, relational issues, identity, self-esteem, and couples work.
Neuropsychology Dorset consists of HCPC registered Clinical Psychologists that specialise in the assessment, diagnosis, and intervention of adults with neurodiversity such as autism, ADHD, and neurological conditions. We can also provide psychological therapy for a range of conditions - to find out more, please visit our website at www.neuropsychologydorset.co.uk
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Photo of Karen Dibbens Counselling Services, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Karen Dibbens Counselling Services
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
1 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH20
Waitlist for new clients
Relationship breakdown, divorce, anger management, bereavement.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
Relationship breakdown, divorce, anger management, bereavement.
I offer a warm, safe and confidential space for you to be listened to. I work at your pace, helping you to explore what you really want, both from the counselling therapy and then concentrating more specifically, on areas of your life that you'd like to change or improve. If you have problems that keep going around and around in your head. If you are unhappy and can't identify why. If you are really struggling to cope with life, then Counselling can offer an amazingly good emotional release. Offering you the comfort of feeling truly listened to, empathised with and not judged.
01354 705994 View 01354 705994
Photo of Claire Alexandra Ingram, Counsellor in Lytchett Minster, England
Claire Alexandra Ingram
Counsellor, DCounsPsych, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH1
My work over the years has been wide ranging including: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, bereavement, self harm, low self -esteem and trauma.
Hello, I'm Claire. I am an experienced counsellor, working on-line and face to face from my therapy rooms in Southbourne. There are many different reasons why you may be looking for change in your life. For example, you may be suffering from day-to-day anxiety, or perhaps you have experienced traumatic life events leading to depression, addictive behaviours or problems in your relationships. You may not even be sure why you feel this way. At times like these it can help to talk to a professional who can work alongside you to help you achieve understanding and clarity, enabling you to make the changes you want in your life.
My work over the years has been wide ranging including: anxiety, depression, relationship issues, addiction, bereavement, self harm, low self -esteem and trauma.
Hello, I'm Claire. I am an experienced counsellor, working on-line and face to face from my therapy rooms in Southbourne. There are many different reasons why you may be looking for change in your life. For example, you may be suffering from day-to-day anxiety, or perhaps you have experienced traumatic life events leading to depression, addictive behaviours or problems in your relationships. You may not even be sure why you feel this way. At times like these it can help to talk to a professional who can work alongside you to help you achieve understanding and clarity, enabling you to make the changes you want in your life.
01725 538784 View 01725 538784
Photo of Abby Orchard, Counsellor in Lytchett Minster, England
Abby Orchard
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH7
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
Do you feel you could develop your potential further? Do you feel anxious or depressed or suffer from PTSD? Is your relationship suffering? Are you finding difficult to manage stressors? Is this getting in the way of you achieving your goals and the quality of life and relationship you desire? I can help!
01202 125945 View 01202 125945
Photo of Andrea Thomas, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Andrea Thomas
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Poole BH14
My priority as a therapist is to tailor my approach to each person's needs and preferred way of working within a therapeutic relationship that is empathic, respectful and containing.
I am a UKCP registered Psychotherapist and certified Transactional Analyst offering psychotherapy, EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner and clinical supervisor I have experience working with clients who are struggling with trauma related symptoms such as PTSD, depression and anxiety. I am deeply committed to an ethical non-discriminatory practice with my clients and abide by the principles and ethics of the UKCP and BACP. My private practice is located in Lilliput, Poole within each reach of Bournemouth and surrounding areas.
My priority as a therapist is to tailor my approach to each person's needs and preferred way of working within a therapeutic relationship that is empathic, respectful and containing.
I am a UKCP registered Psychotherapist and certified Transactional Analyst offering psychotherapy, EMDR Europe Accredited Practitioner and clinical supervisor I have experience working with clients who are struggling with trauma related symptoms such as PTSD, depression and anxiety. I am deeply committed to an ethical non-discriminatory practice with my clients and abide by the principles and ethics of the UKCP and BACP. My private practice is located in Lilliput, Poole within each reach of Bournemouth and surrounding areas.
020 3974 2183 View 020 3974 2183
Photo of Marianne Le Coyte Grinney, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Marianne Le Coyte Grinney
Psychotherapist, MSc, MUKCP
Verified Verified
Poole BH13  (Online Only)
Waitlist for new clients
emphasising the strengths, resilience and resources available to individuals, couples and families.
If you are reading this you may be wishing for something in your life, family or relationship to be different. I too was looking for difference when I first began my Systemic Psychotherapy training. My name is Marianne Le Coyte Grinney and I am a Family and Systemic Psychotherapist: I believe 'the person is never the problem' and that people are best understood within systems, for example their family, work and social life. My therapeutic posture aims not to apportion blame, but to support individual and collective change within a safe and supportive environment. I do not hope to provide answers, but to facilitate change through
emphasising the strengths, resilience and resources available to individuals, couples and families.
If you are reading this you may be wishing for something in your life, family or relationship to be different. I too was looking for difference when I first began my Systemic Psychotherapy training. My name is Marianne Le Coyte Grinney and I am a Family and Systemic Psychotherapist: I believe 'the person is never the problem' and that people are best understood within systems, for example their family, work and social life. My therapeutic posture aims not to apportion blame, but to support individual and collective change within a safe and supportive environment. I do not hope to provide answers, but to facilitate change through
01793 378026 View 01793 378026
Photo of Jo Sharkey, Counsellor in Lytchett Minster, England
Jo Sharkey
Counsellor, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH14
I offer counselling support to individuals, couples, children, young people and families, assessing each person’s situation, offering a calm, non-judgemental and confidential environment.
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
I offer counselling support to individuals, couples, children, young people and families, assessing each person’s situation, offering a calm, non-judgemental and confidential environment.
I am an accredited, integrative therapeutic counsellor, finding that working in this way, gives uniqueness with each client, connecting in a way that is best suited to them as an individual. I have extensive experience, working with a variety of clients, of all ages.
01202 013935 View 01202 013935
Photo of Anna Clarkstone, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Anna Clarkstone
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH8
I am an accredited integrative counsellor/psychotherapist. I am trained in a variety of different counselling theories and aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential relationship, by walking alongside you, facilitating healing and enabling you to reach your goals. Counselling provides support and professional help by talking about the problems you are experiencing in life. I currently see clients online. Do feel free to contact me for an initial online chat or phone call.
I am an accredited integrative counsellor/psychotherapist. I am trained in a variety of different counselling theories and aim to provide a safe, non-judgemental and confidential relationship, by walking alongside you, facilitating healing and enabling you to reach your goals. Counselling provides support and professional help by talking about the problems you are experiencing in life. I currently see clients online. Do feel free to contact me for an initial online chat or phone call.
01202 059822 View 01202 059822
Photo of Andrea Karina Johnstone, Counsellor in Lytchett Minster, England
Andrea Karina Johnstone
Counsellor
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH8
I am a trained transpersonal counsellor with over 20 years of extensive experience with couples relatiionships.
Is your life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from trauma? I help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you. I provide a confidential,non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way. I am a yoga teacher and meditation facilitator, and qualified life coach which can help you in your healing process.
I am a trained transpersonal counsellor with over 20 years of extensive experience with couples relatiionships.
Is your life very overwhelming and challenging at times? Do you feel sometimes out of control and lost? Do you suffer from trauma? I help you find place within yourself which is untouched by the chaos. Within our therapeutic relationship, we explore together how life is for you. I provide a confidential,non-judgemental safe space. I will help you develop your relationship with yourself, to raise your self-esteem and well being. You are the master of your own ship, I will work with you to find your way. I am a yoga teacher and meditation facilitator, and qualified life coach which can help you in your healing process.
01202 057101 View 01202 057101
Photo of Ozde Gul Demir, Psychologist in Lytchett Minster, England
Ozde Gul Demir
Psychologist, MSc, GMBPsS
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH1  (Online Only)
The main point is that therapeutic relationship between psychologist and client is starts therapy for clients.
Hello. I am Özde. I have been working for six years as a psychologist. My area of expertise is individual teeneager and adult personality disorders, especially Borderline, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar..I also take a session a client who has struggle Anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression and panic attack. I always try to help people learn to cope with stressful situations, overcome addictions, manage their chronic illnesses, and tests and assessments that can help diagnose a condition or tell more about the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
The main point is that therapeutic relationship between psychologist and client is starts therapy for clients.
Hello. I am Özde. I have been working for six years as a psychologist. My area of expertise is individual teeneager and adult personality disorders, especially Borderline, Schizophrenia, OCD, Bipolar..I also take a session a client who has struggle Anxiety disorders, PTSD, depression and panic attack. I always try to help people learn to cope with stressful situations, overcome addictions, manage their chronic illnesses, and tests and assessments that can help diagnose a condition or tell more about the way a person thinks, feels, and behaves.
01202 125274 View 01202 125274
Photo of Kirsten Stoyell, Psychologist in Lytchett Minster, England
Kirsten Stoyell
Psychologist, MA, HCPC - Clin. Psych.
Verified Verified
2 Endorsed
Bournemouth BH1
If you are struggling with the after-effects of being in a chaotic, psychologically damaging relationship, be it with a partner, family members, friends or at work, contact me to see how I can help you not only recover but go on to lead a more empowering life.
Do you walk on eggshells in certain relationships? Do you struggle to say no or set boundaries. Do you feel like your reality is being questioned? Have you been in a relationship that has been verbally abusive? Do you not have control of your finances, or personal decision making? Do conversations sound like they are 'crazy making' or going in circles. Sometimes we feel like we have lost ourselves in our relationships. Or we have experienced significant psychological abuse in the past. I help people make sense of their experiences in a safe and nurturing environment. You are not alone and can improve your life.
If you are struggling with the after-effects of being in a chaotic, psychologically damaging relationship, be it with a partner, family members, friends or at work, contact me to see how I can help you not only recover but go on to lead a more empowering life.
Do you walk on eggshells in certain relationships? Do you struggle to say no or set boundaries. Do you feel like your reality is being questioned? Have you been in a relationship that has been verbally abusive? Do you not have control of your finances, or personal decision making? Do conversations sound like they are 'crazy making' or going in circles. Sometimes we feel like we have lost ourselves in our relationships. Or we have experienced significant psychological abuse in the past. I help people make sense of their experiences in a safe and nurturing environment. You are not alone and can improve your life.
01794 331117 View 01794 331117
Photo of Ana Rampelt, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Ana Rampelt
Psychotherapist, MA, UKCP Trainee
Verified Verified
Ferndown BH22
Healing is not about what a therapist does, says or advises, it is the safe space of the therapeutic relationship.
I've been working with people for over 20 years, joining them in sense-making journeys that allow them to live more content and meaningful lives. My focus is to help people explore their thoughts, emotions and past to alleviate difficult states or obstacles to their wellbeing. When people understand what drives their behaviour and reconnect with lost parts of themselves, they can reengage in positive relationships and feel they can own their life. Symptoms like anxiety, depression or a sense of futility and unhappiness are usually linked to past experience and therapy can facilitate a safe frame to revisit them.
Healing is not about what a therapist does, says or advises, it is the safe space of the therapeutic relationship.
I've been working with people for over 20 years, joining them in sense-making journeys that allow them to live more content and meaningful lives. My focus is to help people explore their thoughts, emotions and past to alleviate difficult states or obstacles to their wellbeing. When people understand what drives their behaviour and reconnect with lost parts of themselves, they can reengage in positive relationships and feel they can own their life. Symptoms like anxiety, depression or a sense of futility and unhappiness are usually linked to past experience and therapy can facilitate a safe frame to revisit them.
01202 125656 View 01202 125656
Photo of Estelle Cassidy, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Estelle Cassidy
Psychotherapist, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wimborne BH21
As well as vast experience in individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I have experience in trauma therapy and have undergone professional trauma training with the Dorset Rape Crisis Support Centre.
I am a Registered member of BACP and have over 15 years of experience in counselling. I hold a Bachelor of Arts Counselling and Psychotherapy Degree, a Certificate in Relationship Therapy from Doncaster University, a Relate Certificate in Family Counselling and a Life Coaching Diploma. I am a Relate qualified couples counsellor & family counsellor and I hold a Professional Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
As well as vast experience in individual therapy, couples therapy and family therapy, I have experience in trauma therapy and have undergone professional trauma training with the Dorset Rape Crisis Support Centre.
I am a Registered member of BACP and have over 15 years of experience in counselling. I hold a Bachelor of Arts Counselling and Psychotherapy Degree, a Certificate in Relationship Therapy from Doncaster University, a Relate Certificate in Family Counselling and a Life Coaching Diploma. I am a Relate qualified couples counsellor & family counsellor and I hold a Professional Certificate in Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT)
07479 270415 View 07479 270415
Photo of Gill Patricia de Sylva, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Gill Patricia de Sylva
Psychotherapist, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12
We all struggle at times to manage the pressures of everyday life. It maybe feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, anger or relationship difficulties. I am integratively trained meaning I value your individuality and can tailor my approach to your own unique needs. I am non-judgemental and offer empathy and warmth. We will work together to achieve your goals. I believe each client has the healing potential within to overcome life problems. The relationship we build together provides support and facilitates awareness, insight and personal growth thus allowing a more empowered happier life.
We all struggle at times to manage the pressures of everyday life. It maybe feelings of stress, anxiety, depression, recent or past trauma, anger or relationship difficulties. I am integratively trained meaning I value your individuality and can tailor my approach to your own unique needs. I am non-judgemental and offer empathy and warmth. We will work together to achieve your goals. I believe each client has the healing potential within to overcome life problems. The relationship we build together provides support and facilitates awareness, insight and personal growth thus allowing a more empowered happier life.
01202 835203 View 01202 835203
Photo of Dr Natalie Scheiner, Psychologist in Lytchett Minster, England
Dr Natalie Scheiner
Psychologist, DCounsPsych, HCPC - Couns. Psych.
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH1
I am a counselling psychologist working with both individuals and couples.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to navigate through difficult emotions and find clarity in your thoughts? Rest assured, you're not alone. There is hope for a brighter tomorrow, and I'm here to guide you on that journey. Picture a life where you feel empowered to confront your fears, heal from past wounds, and embrace a future filled with possibilities. Through our shared reflection, you'll gain insight and discover your inner strength. Together, we'll create a safe space for exploration. With compassionate guidance, I'm committed to helping you find peace and contentment.
I am a counselling psychologist working with both individuals and couples.
Are you feeling overwhelmed by life's challenges, struggling to navigate through difficult emotions and find clarity in your thoughts? Rest assured, you're not alone. There is hope for a brighter tomorrow, and I'm here to guide you on that journey. Picture a life where you feel empowered to confront your fears, heal from past wounds, and embrace a future filled with possibilities. Through our shared reflection, you'll gain insight and discover your inner strength. Together, we'll create a safe space for exploration. With compassionate guidance, I'm committed to helping you find peace and contentment.
020 3838 0573 View 020 3838 0573
Photo of Paula Phillips, Counsellor in Lytchett Minster, England
Paula Phillips
Counsellor, MBACP
Verified Verified
Wimborne BH21
Having experienced both sides of the therapeutic relationship it is my personal philosophy that the power of the therapy is in the quality of the relationship between the client and the counsellor.
Life can present us with unwelcome events at any age. Professional counselling can't change these events but can provide tools and techniques to help minimise their impact. In my practise, counselling is primarily about the relationship between you and me. It is a talking therapy where we can explore what is troubling you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. Every person is an individual and therefore counselling can be different for everyone. I am more relationship driven rather than theory driven.
Having experienced both sides of the therapeutic relationship it is my personal philosophy that the power of the therapy is in the quality of the relationship between the client and the counsellor.
Life can present us with unwelcome events at any age. Professional counselling can't change these events but can provide tools and techniques to help minimise their impact. In my practise, counselling is primarily about the relationship between you and me. It is a talking therapy where we can explore what is troubling you in a safe, non-judgemental setting. Every person is an individual and therefore counselling can be different for everyone. I am more relationship driven rather than theory driven.
01202 286479 View 01202 286479
Photo of Richard Absalom, Psychotherapist in Lytchett Minster, England
Richard Absalom
Psychotherapist, DCounsPsych, MBACP Accred
Verified Verified
Poole BH12  (Online Only)
Experienced and established Integrative Individual and Couples Counsellor offering online appointments on Zoom or Skype. As well as my initial core training and qualification in Integrative Counselling (2006) I am additionally qualified in Sex and Relationship therapy. I have worked with individuals since 2006, and couples since 2009. Whatever your circumstances, I am passionate about helping people tap back into their own resources in order to solve problems and make changes. I can help, when unhelpful thoughts patterns and behaviours are keeping you stuck. The aim is to help you gain insight, and heighten self awareness.
Experienced and established Integrative Individual and Couples Counsellor offering online appointments on Zoom or Skype. As well as my initial core training and qualification in Integrative Counselling (2006) I am additionally qualified in Sex and Relationship therapy. I have worked with individuals since 2006, and couples since 2009. Whatever your circumstances, I am passionate about helping people tap back into their own resources in order to solve problems and make changes. I can help, when unhelpful thoughts patterns and behaviours are keeping you stuck. The aim is to help you gain insight, and heighten self awareness.
01202 013959 View 01202 013959
Photo of Rosemarie Philips, Counsellor in Lytchett Minster, England
Rosemarie Philips
Counsellor, MNCPS Acc.
Verified Verified
Bournemouth BH11
RoseMarie Philips, I offer Therapeutic Counselling & Life Coaching in many areas of life: I worked at Relate for 11.5 years. With 26 years of experience working with Trauma, Domestic or Sexual Abuse, Menopause & Post Traumatic Stress. Working with adults and teens with Asperger's and Autism and ADHD issues. Anger Management, Grief, Bereavement. Anxiety & Depression. Providing techniques in Relationship & Family Therapy, Having worked with CAMHS (NHS) children & teens with behavioural issues. Work is around empowering you to rebuild your life. self-worth, confidence & self-esteem. Understanding yourself & improve relationships
RoseMarie Philips, I offer Therapeutic Counselling & Life Coaching in many areas of life: I worked at Relate for 11.5 years. With 26 years of experience working with Trauma, Domestic or Sexual Abuse, Menopause & Post Traumatic Stress. Working with adults and teens with Asperger's and Autism and ADHD issues. Anger Management, Grief, Bereavement. Anxiety & Depression. Providing techniques in Relationship & Family Therapy, Having worked with CAMHS (NHS) children & teens with behavioural issues. Work is around empowering you to rebuild your life. self-worth, confidence & self-esteem. Understanding yourself & improve relationships
01202 125211 View 01202 125211
Couples Counselling

Does couples counseling work?

Research shows that couples counseling is effective; it can reduce relationship distress and improve emotional awareness, communication, empathy, intimacy, and overall relationship satisfaction. For example, emotionally focused therapy was found to be effective for about 75 percent of couples, and those benefits lasted at least two years.

When should a couple seek counseling?

Couples can benefit from counseling if they consistently struggle in their relationship. They may have lost the ability to communicate effectively, become entrenched in harmful patterns, begun to fight more than usual, broken the other’s trust, suffered from a mental or physical illness, or faced any number of other challenges. Many therapists offer free consultations, so if a couple isn’t sure whether therapy is necessary, asking directly can provide clarity.

How can I get my partner to go to couples therapy?

The decision to seek couples therapy is often driven by one partner, who then convinces the other to participate. When discussing the idea, the initiator should be direct and assertive. They can state the problems they see and explain how the relationship would benefit from therapy. In more serious cases, they can also explain how their relationship may suffer without making any changes or seeking professional help.

How does a couple prepare for couples counseling?

The anticipation of beginning couples counseling can be difficult—sometimes more difficult than the first session itself. Taking a few moments to reflect can allay those concerns: What are the current challenges? When and how did they begin? What do they want the relationship to look like in the future? Reflecting on these questions can help individuals or couples articulate their goals. Of course, the therapist will also ask questions and guide couples through the process.